Nambu Ironware Teapot Streak pattern in brown 0.4L

概要

数量

Nambu ironware owes its refined form to the traditional Japanese aesthetical concepts of wabi and sabi, which stress the beauty in simpleness and imperfection, an aesthetic ideal also sought after in the tea ceremony. The particular hailstone (Arare) pattern is thickening the body and enhancing the ironware's ability to prolong the prevention of temperature loss.

Different than Nambu tea kettles, Nambu teapots are coated so that they don't rust. On the other hand the positive effect on the users health the mild taste of the water cooked with a tea kettle are lost. Nambu teapot also come with a small mesh net tea filter keeping tea leaves from flowing into the tea cups.

As Nambu teapots are just container for brewing tea, it is not recommended for use on a hot stove.

Japanese handmade crafts have always received international acclaim for their fine quality and simple beauty. Nambu Tekki, better known as Nambu Ironware in the west, is an example of one such craft. It’s a local specialty of Iwate Prefecture of which iron kettles used for boiling water are the most famous. The area around Morioka City in Iwate Prefecture was formerly known as Nambu in the Edo period (1603-1868), and it is said that the production of Nambu ironware started in that area at the end of the 17th century, when craftsmen from Kyoto started crafting various ironwares.

History of Nambu Ironware

Japanese handmade crafts have long been prized for their fine quality and simple beauty. Nambu Tekki (Nambu ironware) is one such craft, with the most renowned types most likely the tetsubin (iron kettle used for boiling water) and kyusu (teapot).

Nambu ironware is a specialty of Iwate Prefecture in the Tohoku region. The area around prefectural capital, Morioka, was formerly known as Nambu during the Edo period (1603-1868). It is thought that the production of Nambu ironware started in that area at the end of the 17th century, when craftsmen who came to the area from Kyoto started producing various ironware. The further development of the metalwork industry in the region was driven by two main factors: the first, was that production materials for metal casting were abundantly available in the local surroundings, including metal ores, good quality clay, and charcoal; the second, was the stylish appearance and tactile allure of Nambu ironware made the products popular among feudal lords during the Edo period, and resulted in the industry becoming protected.

Initially, ironwork in the area focused on the production of cauldrons. However, with the growth in popularity of tea ceremony, cauldrons were gradually transformed into tea kettles, by making them smaller in size and adding a spout and handle. Nowadays, in addition to tea kettles, ironworkers around Morioka City specialize in the production of around 35 different products, including wind chimes, ashtrays, ornaments and vases. The increasing popularity of Nambu ironware contributed to the decision by the Japanese government to designate it as a traditional craft in 1975.

How Is Nambu Ironware Made?

Nambu ironware is made by hand, using original techniques that have been passed down through generations over last 400 years. First, a sand or clay mold is created, and a design etched into the mold. As these molds are only able to be used once, every Nambu ironware is one of a kind. Molten iron is then poured into the mold and fired. During casting, the insides of the ironware are baked over a charcoal fire and then left to oxidize for a certain amount of time, and then the process is repeated. This method prevents rusting, and makes the ironwork more durable.

What Distinguishes Nambu Ironware from Other Ironware in the world?

Nambu ironware has a refined form inspired by the traditional Japanese wabi sabi aesthetic, a concept that emphasizes the beauty in simplicity and imperfection—ideals also sought after in traditional tea ceremony. Nambu ironware is distinguished by its unique surface decorations, such as the hailstone (arare) pattern. As well as providing visual and tactile appeal, these patterns thicken the body of kettles, and promotes temperature retention.

More recently, Nambu ironware has received renewed interest throughout the world, as the demand for natural and handmade products has increased. Additionally, water boiled in a Nambu kettle is imbued with minerals of the ironware, imparting a mild yet pleasant taste, and is thought to positive health benefits, such as iron supplementation. And with each use, the overall quality of the water improves.

How to Use Nambu Tekki?

As most Nambu tea kettles do not have a vent in the lid to allow steam to escape, it is recommended that the lid is placed slightly off center, so steam can be released when heating water. A completely closed lid results in inner pressure, which may cause ejection of hot water from the spout of the kettle. When pouring water, it is recommended that the lid is firmly secured on the kettle, and the handle of the kettle is held with a piece of cloth. For a safe use of Nambu tea kettle, a water capacity of 80% and below is recommended.

How to Care for a Nambu Tekki Kettle

To preserve Nambu Tekki kettles, it is important to not leave any water remaining inside the kettle after usage, as well as not placing a waterless kettle over heat. Both actions could damage the kettle and cause rusting.

Why Did A-Janaika Japan Choose to Sell Nambu Ironware?

A-Janaika Japan is committed to fostering good relationships with Japanese artisans and promoting their work, such as the Nambu ironware craftsmen. This is to provide international customers with a bigger selection of unique Japanese products, and to support the welfare of Japanese artisans.

We aim to make these products accessible to the market by keeping the price as low as possible, and offering Free worldwide shipping for all the purchase over 100USD.

Order & Delivery Details

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